Ted Krauskopf has demonstrated a lifelong conservation ethic that consistently goes beyond regulatory requirements to protect and enhance natural resources.

The Illinois Forage and Grassland Council gathered four veteran growers together at the Illinois Forage Institute for a producer-led discussion on building a successful hay operation.

Trevor Toland is a vocal advocate for regenerative farming practices. In 2025, he decided to find out if grazing livestock in ‘good black dirt’ might be more profitable than row-crop production. Here’s what he learned.

Using a strategic rotational grazing system, forage stays at peak production while the livestock directly benefit from getting the highly nutrient-rich feed on Ted Krauskopf’s farm.

After running the numbers, looking at my projections and grazing plans for the most efficient use, he feels there is more money to be made grazing than growing either of the row crops.

Greg Thoren has transformed his farm into a showcase of sustainable livestock grazing, cutting-edge technology, and soil health advancements.